Our Story
Terry Blackwood, Darrell Toney, and Will Shaw love Gospel Music. It’s been their life’s calling and count it a privilege to be able to proclaim the Gospel literally around the world through song.
The journey of this renowned group, the Imperials, began in 1964 when Jake Hess organized a world-class vocal group with the best voices he could find. The Imperials quickly found their place in Gospel Music but after a few short years, Jake Hess developed some health issues. When he had to step down, he asked Terry Blackwood to take his place. This great group included Jim Murray, Armond Morales, Roger Wiles and Joe Moscheo.
What a time of excitement it was for them as the popularity of Gospel music was growing and The Imperials were about to have a major impact on what became “Contemporary Christian Music”. They had no idea what was in store for the group, as their journey was just beginning!
The Imperials’ first love was always Gospel Music! In the midst of keeping a full concert schedule of their own, they received a call from Elvis Presley asking them to be a part of his show, along side of The TCB Band and The Sweet Inspirations. As part of his group, they also sang on many of his hits during his prime as an artist. Their association with Elvis opened many doors making it possible for them to bring the “Good News” of the Gospel to millions of people around the world via television, radio and personal appearances.
The Imperials impacted an entire generation of young people bringing a fresh new sound but an “uncompromised Gospel message” to millions of all ages.
Along the way, they won multiple Grammy Awards, Dove Awards, induction into the Gospel Music Hall Of Fame among other accolades. However, those “things” were just a vehicle to help them bring the Gospel to a larger audience and reach a lost and dying world with the message of “Eternal Life” through Jesus Christ.
Today the group consists of Terry Blackwood (son of one of the original Blackwood Brothers) who made his mark as the lead singer for The Imperials and later Andrus Blackwood & Company.
Darrell Toney’s musical roots were shaped by The Toney Brothers (his father and uncles), and later was a founding member of The Renaissance in the early seventies. Darrell worked with The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association in the early 2000s and in 2010, joined the Imperials. He is also a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer Will Shaw was born into a musical family as well and his parents were missionaries. Will certainly has the heart of a pastor. His powerful tenor voice came to the attention of The Imperials after singing with Southern Sound Quartet. After one audition, he joined The Imperials. Will and his wife Shavona have 9 children.
